International Life Chains Proclaim the Right to Life of the Pre-Born - 6 October 2013

The Life Chain is an international prayer rally and peaceful placard protest against the abortion holocaust.

According to official 2011 Department of Health statistics, 1 010 019 babies have been killed by abortion in South Africa since abortion-on-demand was legalised in 1997. Possibly millions more have been killed by illegal abortions.

Illegal abortionists operate with impunity in virtually every city and town in South Africa - due to the failure of police and city officials to investigate or make any arrests. The Department of Health estimated that there are 38 illegal abortions per 1 000 women (report in Sowetan Live, 12 June 2012).

Pro-life groups come alongside the next generation to help and support them, recognising that the future of this country is in their hands. Pro-lifers promote abstinence before marriage and support those facing an unplanned pregnancy with practical help and support. Earlier this year Marie Stopes Abortion Chain launched their Blue Light Campaign to target schools and universities with their pro-abortion message. Pro-life groups will therefore be stepping up their efforts to educate youth on the scientific facts about the development of the pre-born in the womb and the physical and psychological after-effects of abortion.

65 Crisis Pregnancy Centres, 6 Mothers Homes and 26 Baby Homes across South Africa provide women with loving alternatives and practical support, not just one choice – abortion – that pro-abortionists coerce women into choosing. Doctors for Life and many other Christian groups each care for hundreds of orphans.

The Life Chains recognise the abortion holocaust as one of the greatest evils being committed in the world today.

Life begins at conception. The pre-born baby is then genetically, physiologically and organically a distinct person. At about three weeks after conception the baby's heartbeat can be detected. Six weeks after conception the baby has its own lifelong brainwave.

When a nation devalues it's most helpless and innocent citizens and allows them to be slaughtered in their millions, it is no wonder that all other life is treated as cheap.It is an urgent priority for the Church to expose, oppose, and end this genocide of children made in the image of God.

Since 1987 Life Chains have been held in the USA, and since 1992 Africa Christian Action has organised Life Chains in South Africa. This was the 21st Life Chain held in Cape Town.

Gifts, such as baby items, in support of Kwasizabantu Mission were collected at the Cape Town Life Chain.